Preston NORTH END boss Alex Neil praised his side’s determination to hang on for a 0-0 draw after going a man down on 60 minutes at Leeds United on Saturday.

The visitors had Ben Pearson sent off for a second bookable offence and Leeds bossed the game from that point but failed to make their chances count, with striker Chris Wood twice going close with shots.

Preston North End's Ben Pearson looks dejected as he is sent off during the Sky Bet Championship match at Elland Road. PIC: Anna Gowthorpe/PA Wire

Wood was also denied by Chris Maxwell during a one-on-one in the closing stages, while the Preston goalkeeper pulled off a superb double save to deny Stuart Dallas and Javier Hernandez.

“The red card stopped the momentum of the game and that is frustrating,” he said.

“For 60 minutes I thought we were great and were the better side. We controlled the ball, we were aggressive. I thought we dominated which was really pleasing.

“This is not an easy place to come in front of a full ground with these fans.

Chris Maxwell denied Chris Wood late on at Elland Road.

“I thought we deserved the three points. With 11 men we were the better team.

“Once we went down to 10 men we had to change our approach. They had a man more and that makes it more difficult for us to press. The lads worked extremely hard and kept their shape and discipline. They showed just how much it means to them individually and collectively.

“That type of heart is very pleasing and the players deserve a lot of credit for their attitude.

“It is still early but I’m pleased with how we have started the season.”